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From unicorn spotting to secret diary reading, little literature lovers have got a huge festival programme to look forward to

Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Hear Jeff Kinney, the author of the super popular Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, speak to a Sydney audience for the very first time. All ages. Sydney Opera House Concert Hall, Bennelong Point 2000. 6.30-7.30pm. $12-$20. Wed May 16.
Kid’s Corner
Feel like writing a poem, a story or drawing a picture? What about hunting down the ever-elusive Wally? All of this and more is possible at the Kids’ Corner. School-aged children. ATYP Studio 2, Pier 4/5 Hickson Rd. Walsh Bay 2000. 11am-3pm. Free. Sun May 20.

The Grimstones
Be enchanted and amazed as you enter the magical world of The Grimstones. Get a peek at its miniscule and gothic worlds and an inside look at Martha’s Magnificently Secret Diary. Rumour has it that Martha will even make an appearance. All ages. Sydney Dance 4, Pier 4/5 Hickson Rd, Walsh Bay 2000. 1-2pm. Free. Sun May 20.

Varuna Children’s Day
Varuna Writers’ House is bringing sign language, author talks, puppetry and more to SWF, so bring the not-so-little ones (ages 8 and up) along for a day jam-packed with fun. Blackheath Community Hall, Cnr Gardiner Cr & Great Western Hwy, Blackheath 2785. 10.30am-2pm. Four-event pass $25. Fri May 18.

WriterOvernighter with Michael Pryor
Spend the night at the Powerhouse Museum with Michael Pryor, author of The Laws of Magic. It’s a pricey excursion, but well worth it for the inspiring mentor and sleepover setting! Ages 8-13. Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris St, Pyrmont 2009. 6pm. $130. Fri May 18.

Primary School Days at Sydney Town Hall
Catch readings from authors including Tristan Bancks, Oliver Phommavanh and Emily Rodda, and remember to take their books with you to get them signed! Ages 8 and up; NSW priority schools only. Sydney Town Hall, 483 George St, Sydney 2000. 9.40am-2.30pm. Free. Wed May 23.

Join the Brotherband
John Flanagan is in town to reveal the next part in his new series, Brotherband. Picking up right where he left off in Book 1: The Outcasts, Book 2: The Invaders has no shortage of battles, wolves and sea-faring adventures. Bangarra Theatre, Pier 4/5 Hickson Rd, Walsh Bay 2000. 1-2pm. Free. Sun May 20.

Bookmaking
Come armed with your most creative ideas for your very own book, and get ready to learn how to write, illustrate and even bind it! All ages. Limited space. ATYP Studio 2, Pier 4/5 Hickson Rd. Walsh Bay 2000. Noon-2pm. Free. Sun May 20.

Unicorn Tails
Who says that unicorns don’t exist? They’re alive and well in Aleesah Darlison’s stories, so get yourself ready to enter a world of fairies, unicorns and magic with the author. BYO pad and textas! Ages 4 and up. Philharmonia Studio, Pier 4/5 Hickson Rd. Walsh Bay 2000. 11.30am-12.30pm. Free. Sun May 20.